Glen Lednock Circular Walk
| Distance | Approximate Time | Height Gain | OS Map |
| 7 kms | 02:00 (hrs:mins) | 100 metres | Explorer 368: Crieff, Comrie and Glen Artney |
Description
Before the Highland clearances in the 18th century Glen Lednock supported 21 different settlements comprising over 350 structures and 25 corn-drying kilns. Very little evidence is left of these once busy communities along the minor road that runs through the glen north-west from Comrie, however there is still much of interest for the modern day visitor.
Start the walk by parking in the public car park in Dundas Street, next to the old church. From here it is a short stroll through the village to Monument Road (past the Deil's Cauldron Restaurant). A woodland path is soon visible on the right which leads onto the walk proper and to a set of rapids known as the Wee Cauldron. Further on more steps lead down to a huge dark pothole known as the Deil's Cauldron (Devil's Kettle). This boiling waterfall was created at the end of the last Ice Age by water, ice and stones grinding out the surrounding rocks. The spot is said to be the preferred haunt of a brownie or water elf who entices victims down into the gloomy ravine. A specially constructed viewing platform means that you can enjoy the show in safety as part of the circular walk. An optional detour off the main route takes walkers up Dunmore Hill to the Melville Monument. The path is steep but the effort is well rewarded by magnificent views of Strathearn and the village of Comrie. Return to the road and follow the signs to Laggan Wood, crossing the River Lednock by the Shaky Brig. The path meanders through the wood back to the centre of Comrie village.
The drive up the glen is picturesque, particularly in autumn when heather clothes the surrounding hills with a purple hue and the bracken on the lower ground turns a deep rich russet. Wildlife abounds and it is said that the area is a favourite habitat of the shy and elusive Scottish wildcat.
The single track roads ends at the massive Glen Lednock Dam, behind which lies windswept Loch Lednock. The loch is manmade and forms part of the Breadalbane Hydro Scheme. Visitors can walk past the dam to view the loch and moorland beyond however access to the loch side is limited by the rough ground and absence of good paths or tracks. For fit walkers with good navigational skills it is possible to walk cross-country to Ardeonaig on Loch Tay side.
The Munro known as Ben Chonzie can also be accessed from Glen Lednock and, as hills go, is a relatively easy ascent on a good landrover track for much of the way. The start point is the small car park at Invergeldie (GR 743 274) and, for those reaching the summit, there are great views down to Loch Turret and across the fertile sweep of Strathearn.
Access Info
For the Glen Lednock Circular Walk proceed on foot from the public car park by the old church in Dundas Street, Comrie. For the upper reaches of the glen and Ben Chonzie drive up the single track road.
Additional Info
An excellent walks leaflet with outline maps describes this and other walks in the Comrie area and is available from local shops or the Crieff Tourist Information Centre. Other attractions in the Comrie area include Auchingarrich Wildlife Centre, Drummond Trout Farm & Fishery and Earthquake House, a tiny seismic recording station located in a field in The Ross.
Free Big Tree Country Guide also available from any Perthshire Tourist Information Centre. Packed with information on walking, cycling and wildlife watching at over 65 woodland and countryside sites, this is the ideal companion to help you explore Perthshire?s great outdoors. See also www.perthshirebigtreecountry.co.uk
